Italy in Photos

Piazza Guglielmo Marconi

Piazza Guglielmo Marconi is the heart and soul of Vernazza, one of the most iconic villages of the Cinque Terre in Liguria, Italy. Nestled at the edge of the harbour and opening directly onto the sea, this square is not only the physical centre of the town but also its cultural and social stage. Named after Guglielmo Marconi, the Italian inventor and pioneer of wireless telegraphy, the piazza reflects both the modern spirit of innovation and the timeless traditions of coastal Liguria. For visitors, it is often the first memorable sight upon reaching Vernazza, a place where pastel-coloured houses, lively cafés, and the vast blue of the Mediterranean come together in a harmonious tableau.

Historically, squares in Ligurian villages have always been gathering spaces, where fishermen brought in their daily catch, where markets animated the streets, and where the community celebrated religious and civic events. Piazza Guglielmo Marconi continues this legacy today. It is the point where locals meet for conversation, children play freely, and travellers pause to soak in the scenery. Around the piazza stand restaurants, wine bars, and small shops, each offering flavours of the region: fresh seafood, focaccia, pesto, and the famous Sciacchetrà wine. This makes the square not only a visual landmark but also a sensory experience, where the tastes and aromas of Liguria blend with the salty sea breeze.

The setting of Piazza Guglielmo Marconi is remarkable. On one side, the piazza is framed by the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, with its distinctive octagonal bell tower that rises above the square as a spiritual and architectural anchor. On the other, the piazza opens directly onto the harbour, where brightly painted fishing boats rest gently on the water. This duality, between the sacred presence of the church and the practical livelihood of the sea—captures the essence of Vernazza’s identity. It is here, more than anywhere else in the village, that the balance between tradition, faith, and daily life becomes visible.

For visitors, the piazza serves as both a starting point and a destination. From here, narrow alleys branch out into the village, while paths lead toward the hiking trails that connect Vernazza with Monterosso and Corniglia. Yet many linger in the square itself, enjoying a coffee at sunrise, a glass of wine at sunset, or the simple pleasure of watching the ebb and flow of activity.

Ultimately, Piazza Guglielmo Marconi is more than a square; it is the beating heart of Vernazza. It embodies community, history, and beauty, offering every traveller a chance to feel connected to the timeless rhythm of life along the Ligurian coast.